The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organization is hosting a capacity-building session for officials from the Office of the Attorney General, aimed at deepening understanding of the legal dimensions of climate change and energy governance.
The week-long training, supported by development partners, seeks to equip state attorneys with the knowledge and tools needed to provide informed, independent legal advice on environmental and energy matters—particularly as Zimbabwe moves to finalize the Climate Change Management Bill.
In her opening remarks, ZELO Deputy Director Shamiso Mtisi said the training was designed to bridge the gap between scientific evidence and the law in shaping national climate policy.
“We are having this conversation to ensure that you have an appreciation of the science when it comes to climate change, especially because the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Climate and Environment is undergoing public consultations on the Climate Change Management Bill,” Mtisi said.
“The idea is to see the connections between the science and the law.”
She added that ZELO generates a wide range of data and research, which it shares with government institutions to support evidence-based policymaking and strengthen environmental governance.
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Delivering his remarks, Johanne Gandiwa, Executive Secretary in the Office of the Attorney General, emphasized the importance of scientific and legal literacy in enabling government lawyers to offer impartial, well-informed advice.
"Legal advice is one of the few functions our office performs independently, giving due regard to the best available evidence and legal information,” said Gandiwa.
“We are here to gain knowledge on climate change and natural resource governance so that when we are called upon to advise, we do so without fear or favour—because lack of confidence is a function of lack of knowledge.”
Climate change expert Lawrence Mashungu facilitated a technical session covering key topics such as climate mitigation and adaptation, climate justice, and climate finance, providing participants with a practical understanding of global and national frameworks.
“This session is meant to provide decision-making tools for officers in the Attorney General’s Office,” Mashungu said, explaining the science behind carbon emissions, ozone-depleting substances, and greenhouse gases.
The training is part of ZELO’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity in environmental law, support the effective implementation of climate legislation, and promote coherent policy responses to climate and energy challenges in Zimbabwe.
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